A three-day conference focused on tackling the enduring challenges affecting the efficiency and accessibility of Nigeria’s judicial system commenced in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

Speaking at the opening of the Justice Sector Reform Teams (JSRT) Conference, Minister of Justice Prince Lateef Fagbemi emphasised the importance of the event as a platform for assessing progress and addressing obstacles in ongoing judicial reforms.

Fagbemi highlighted that the conference aims to explore innovative strategies to enhance the capacity of justice sector stakeholders, ensuring they effectively fulfill the Federal Ministry of Justice’s institutional mandate.

“As we gather here today, we do so against the backdrop of persistent challenges that continue to hinder the effectiveness and accessibility of our justice system,” Fagbemi said.

“The conference is a platform for relevant stakeholders in the justice sector to deliberate on pertinent issues and develop harmonized responses for improving the justice system, increasing accountability, and strengthening coordination among stakeholders.

“This conference is a follow-up to the National Summit on Justice, which was held on the 24th and 25th of April 2024.”

The minister said Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s dedication to ensuring the success of the conference reflects his commitment to progress and excellence.

“It is noteworthy that as the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum, Your Excellency leads the chart of governors who are taking strategic steps to reform this critical sector,” he added.

In his speech, Governor Abdulrazaq, who flagged off the event, said the conference was timely and headed for success with the commitment of the Minister of Justice and his team.

“I have confidence that the JSRT will address all pending issues on judicial reforms from a position of knowledge and patriotism and in a way that strengthens public confidence in the judicial system.”

Governor Abdulrazaq lauded the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen public confidence in the country’s judicial system.

Prof Muhammad Tabiu, in his welcome address, said Nigeria is progressively being brought together to advance the fortune of the justice system under the present administration, commending Prince Fagbemi for exceptional leadership.

“Holding this conference in Ilorin is very symbolic. The Honourable Attorney General of the Federation is leading the Justice Reforms team from across different states in his own ground—Ilorin.

“This is an opportunity for us to benefit from the leadership values of Kwara people. From ancient to modern history, Kwara people have shown exceptional leadership. They have contributed enormously in all spheres of Nigeria’s governance,” he added.